NHS winter crisis will put older people at risk

Poor weather and seasonal health conditions make winter particularly challenging for older people. As a result, the NHS typically sees an annual spike in hospital admissions during the winter months.

However, additional pressure on health and social care resources extend waiting times. It also increases the potential for errors to be made in terms of both healthcare provision and hospital discharge processes.

Hospitals need to free up 2,000 beds each in preparation for the NHS winter crisis. Councils are also under threat of funding cuts should bed-blocking rates not decrease.

Key national health and social care leaders have come forward to express their concerns:

Dr. Chaand Nagpaul: British Medical Association Chairman

“Staff across the NHS are gearing up again for the busy winter period and will remember the stress of enduring the worst winter on record last year, with patients facing unacceptable delays for care.

“We don’t want to see a repeat of that this year, which is why it’s vital the entire health system is supported and working well – from our GP surgeries, to hospital wards, to social care." (The Independent)